Think Safety around the water this Summer

We just got the kids a new pool for the backyard. Summer is here and there is no doubt it will be a hot one. Red Cross Canada has released a timely report that I wanted to share with you all. I know we all know water safety, but it is always good to have a refresher. See the full report here. Some of the key points are below. Have fun this summer and stay safe!

Important safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this summer, at the beach, lake or around the backyard pool.

Active supervision

The absence of adult supervision is a factor in most child drownings.

Whether it’s a pool, the bathtub, a water park, or the beach, always watch children actively around water-even if they can swim.

Consider requiring all non-swimmers to wear a lifejacket to keep them at the surface to assist you while supervising.

Backyard pools

Backyard pools are especially dangerous for small children. Ensure adequate barriers are in place such as four-sided fencing along with a self-closing, self-latching gate.

Empty portable toddler pools after each use.

Bathing children

When bathing infants or toddlers, an adult should remain with the child at all times- children should never be relied upon to supervise other children in the bath.

When a child is in the bathtub, never leave to answer the phone or for any other momentary distraction.

Diving

Diving headfirst into water should be avoided unless the individual is properly trained and is sure that the water is deep enough.

Avoid diving in home pools and always enter the water feet-first.

Open water

Never underestimate the power of current. Swimmers or waders can be swept away in an instant, particularly if non-swimmers or weak swimmers get caught by current in rivers or out of their depth in abrupt drop-offs.

Be cautious about swimming in currents, and know what to do if caught in a current.

Comments

Very important to keep an eye on them near water. We are overly careful with our pool. And when the kids come over with friends we are always watching. I don't ever want to take the chance that someone gets hurt. We are fortunate to have some great swimmers but safety is important for every level of swimmer at every age.
My recent post The Best Seat in the Pool – SwimWays Spring Float

I work for a company that transports those in wheelchairs. We have at least two patrons that were normal children with normal, happy childhoods that are now mentally challenged and in care homes. One will spend his life in a wheelchair. Both children (one is now 24, other a teen) were resuscitated drowning victims. All it takes is a few minutes and a misunderstanding between adults. The results are devastating!